This is my first NCL cruise, my second cruise overall, I was on the inaugural sailing of the Crown Princess a few years back and I had a tremendous time (I actually was alone for that one). Anyway I'm just trying to get any feedback/tips/tricks for my cruise to the Bahamas onboard the Jewel on May 8th, I booked a mini-suite just to have a little more bathroom/floor space. I will be traveling with my best friend this time around. Im not a thrill seeker (cliffdiving type), I like to gamble and sightsee. Thanks in advance.

Welcome to cruise-chat. I am somewhat jealous as your cruise leaves from New York, my favorite home port. Be sure to stay on deck as N. Jewel makes her way down the Hudson River... and be on a top deck when she travels under the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. It is such a thrill as you approach, knowing your ship will clear it, but still wondering. Being on an outer deck rather than your balcony will enable you to go from side to side during this scenic trip.

Once onboard, I have only a few tips as my time on N. Jewel was limited to a ship tour a few years ago. When in the cabin corridors, look down at the carpeting. The design is that of fish swimming... they are "swimming" toward the front of the ship, which will be helpful in finding your cabin. Also, be sure to have at least one meal in Tsar's Palace... no fee, and a spectacular dining room. If you do decide to go to the fee restaurants, look for early-bird specials. Additionally, as you are in a mini-suite, you can make your reservations in the fee restaurants 48 hours in advance (at least that is the case on my upcoming cruise).

If I think of anything else, I'll let you know. Again, welcome aboard!

Thank you so much, yes, actually my first cruise on the Crown Princess left out of Brooklyn as well and yes I stayed on the top deck they entire time enjoyed going under the Verrazano and watching Lady Liberty. Im looking forward to going to Cagney's, perhaps the first nite.

We were on the Jewel twice. We started going to TSAR's dining room for breakfast every morning. Service was quick and so much nicer than the buffet.
If you want to take part in the murder mystery dinner, line up early on the sign up day.
Check your daily newsletter - there is often a "happy hour" when drinks are 2 for 1.
Sign up for the "casinos at sea" program. Doesn't cost anything, but there are daily chances to spin the wheel to win prizes, including a free cruise.
There are often snacks in the casino late in the evening.

We like the ship layout. The entertaiment is GREAT.... Dinning room wait service in th Tsar was poor, and the wait staff in the Blue Lagoon was almost non existent and poor if they did take your order. The food was pretty good, the deserts were below average for a cruise line.